[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 117, 108th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

Proclamation 7648 of February 28, 2003
 
American Red Cross Month, 2003

By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Throughout our history, Americans have been committed to helping the
suffering, the disadvantaged, and those in need of help. The American
Red Cross represents the compassion of our Nation in action. During
American Red Cross Month, we honor this remarkable organization and
recognize its proud heritage of service.
For more than 121 years, the Red Cross has upheld its mission to provide
relief to victims of disasters and to help people prevent, prepare for,
and respond to emergencies. Last year, the Red Cross helped victims of
more than 70,000 disasters, ranging from dwelling fires to widespread
catastrophes such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and wildfires.
Around the world, the Red Cross contributed to international efforts
that aided other countries devastated by natural disasters, assisted
people in getting access to safe drinking water, and battled
malnutrition and life-threatening diseases. More than half a million
U.S. military families received direct assistance from the Red Cross,
helping them stay connected with their loved ones, despite difficult
circumstances.
The American Red Cross also strengthens our communities by encouraging
citizens to be involved and to help their neighbors in need. Last year,
more than 1.2 million everyday heroes volunteered at their local Red
Cross chapters, and almost 12 million more took the time to learn
lifesaving skills such as first aid, CPR, and defibrillator use. And
more than 4 million citizens answered the call for blood donors, giving
7.2 million blood donations through the American Red Cross.
During these times of great consequence, the mission of the Red Cross is
more critical than ever. As our Nation confronts new challenges, the
American Red Cross and its partners are working with the Federal
Government and the emergency planning community to help keep America
safe. Through its ``Together We Prepare'' campaign, the Red Cross is a
vital partner with the Department of Homeland Security in empowering
individuals and families to protect themselves and be prepared for the
unexpected.
Countless people across our country turn to the American Red Cross every
day for blood and blood products, disaster assistance, and vital
community services. We are grateful for this essential and inspiring
organization, and we celebrate its legacy of help, hope, and healing for
those in need.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America and Honorary Chairman of the American Red Cross, by virtue of
the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim March 2003 as American Red Cross Month. As we
celebrate this month, I call upon all citizens to become partners in
preparedness with their local Red Cross chapters and to become active
participants in advancing the noble mission of the American Red Cross.

[[Page 3008]]
117 STAT. 3008

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth day
of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
seventh.
GEORGE W. BUSH